We all – each and every one of us – see the world differently. For example, a group of individuals looking at the same object, scene or picture will each see something different; how different will depend upon the varied life experiences in relation to the subject matter, that is, what they bring to the seeing process.
The point is, there is a distinction between LOOKING and SEEING and when creating a picture it is the exploration of this difference that interests me. Rather like peeling an apple or orange. I need to remove the outer layer to get to the substance. Direct representation is seldom sufficient. I need to get beyond the outer appearance to the inner meaning, the essence of the subject matter.
The Viennese photographer Ernst Haas wrote, ‘A picture is the expression of an impression’. Frequently I ask, ‘Why do I want to take this photograph? Why have I stopped? What feeling, what impression has the subject evoked in me? How can I best capture and express that feeling?’ If I cannot answer these questions satisfactorily I have nothing to contribute; no creative energy with which to enliven or interpret; nothing to say.
See also Hello and Welcome, The Water Abstracts, Introducing the Dune Grass photos, Why am I doing this?
Louis' Page 